New AMC shows to focus on taxidermists and Venice Beach freaks

AMC is currently the home to zombies, meth dealers and “Mad Men.” But they’ll soon have to make room for taxidermists and freaks.

The cable network has just announced two new unscripted original series.

The first, “Untitled Taxidermy Series” is a hosted competition series in which contestants will compete to see who can create the best artwork using the craft of taxidermy. Go Go Luckey Entertainment (“Laguna Beach”) is executive producing.

The other new show, “Venice Beach Freakshow” (working title) centers on former music producer Todd Ray as he and his family attempt to start a modern day “Freakshow’ on the already freaky boardwalk in Venice Beach, CA. Ray is exec producing with Endemol’s Greg Johnston “Fear Factor”).

AMC also re-upped “The Pitch” — sort of a real life “Mad Men” — for a second season.

“Behind the marquee of the ‘Venice Beach Freakshow” is an extended family drama that shows what it takes to give up everything and pull together to make a family business a success,” said AMC exec Joel Stillerman. “‘Untitled Taxidermy Series” features the art-form of taxidermy, which can be as outrageous and shocking as it is beautiful.”

Stillerman adds, “Season one of ‘The Pitch” captured the intensity of the advertising world and provided the ultimate behind-the-scenes look at the compelling and dramatic pitch process. We are so pleased to work again with Studio Lambert on the show”s return.”